Acorns Nursery at Longvernal Primary School

Early writing starts with fingers in foam and chalk outdoors at Acorns, Longvernal Primary School’s nursery in Midsomer Norton. This is the beginning of school learning through practical exploration, with attention to the small physical skills that help children put their ideas on paper.

Ofsted judged the school’s early years provision Good at the inspection on 2 and 3 February 2023. That judgement covers early years within the school.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together learning to communicate, becoming physically capable and developing relationships, alongside early literacy, mathematics, creativity and understanding the world. These are connected aspects of a young child’s development rather than simply a timetable of school subjects.

Mark-making gives that learning a tangible form. Early writing activities include painting, experimenting with shapes in sand or flour, using felt pens on large paper and drawing with chalk outside. Children can initiate their own marks too. The emphasis is on exploring materials and beginning to express ideas, with pencil grip considered from Nursery and intervention where fine motor skills cause difficulty.

In February 2023, enjoyment of books was established in early years, and phonics began during the Nursery Year. Books were matched to the sounds children were learning, giving them opportunities to apply that knowledge. Depth of learning. Some wider curriculum teaching, including in early years, did not help children connect new concepts sufficiently with existing knowledge. Families should weigh that concern alongside the early reading findings.

The nursery staffing structure includes lead roles, EYFS practitioners and an apprentice EYFS practitioner. In February 2023, early years children followed established routines, listened to others and showed respect. Those habits matter in a group setting, where children are learning how to share adult attention and participate together.

For additional needs, Longvernal uses adaptations to learning activities and works with parents and external agencies to tailor support. A school SENDCO coordinates physical resources and access arrangements. Families also have a Parent Support Adviser as a contact for additional support. Safeguarding concerns can be raised with the designated lead or deputy leads; the school uses My Concern to record them.

Attending Acorns does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions route by the applicable deadline. Treat that application as a separate step from choosing the nursery.

Preparation for starting school has its own programme. Parents are invited to an evening meeting, usually in the preceding term, followed by a couple of classroom taster sessions for children. Weekly opportunities to borrow literacy and project packs extend preparation into the home. An individual appointment with the new class teacher lets parents discuss their child’s strengths and needs. These activities support familiarity and communication; they do not secure admission.

Acorns belongs to Longvernal Primary School on Clapton Road, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, BA3 2LP. Contact the school office on 01761 412777 or email office@longvernal.mnsp.org.uk for nursery enquiries. Visits can be arranged by contacting the school, giving families a practical next step before choosing the provision.